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GE Appliances Washing Machine Error Code E64

High Severity 🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY

Heater open circuit — heating element has failed

The wash water heater has an open circuit, meaning the heating element is burned through. The washer can still run cold water cycles, but hot and warm water settings will not work, and some sanitize cycles will be disabled.

💰 DIY cost: $40–$100 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $200–$380 Save $160+ by doing it yourself

What Does Error Code E64 Mean on a GE Appliances Washing Machine?

Heater open circuit — heating element has failed.

The wash water heater has an open circuit, meaning the heating element is burned through. The washer can still run cold water cycles, but hot and warm water settings will not work, and some sanitize cycles will be disabled.

What Causes Error Code E64?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Heating element burned through (open circuit) 65% of cases
  2. 2
    Heater wiring harness damaged or disconnected 25% of cases
  3. 3
    Control board heater relay failure 10% of cases

How to Fix GE Appliances Washing Machine Error Code E64

🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY Est. time: 1–3 hours
Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Test the heating element

    Disconnect the two wires from the heater. Test with a multimeter for continuity. A good heater reads approximately 20–30 ohms. Open circuit = failed heater.

    🔩 Multimeter
  2. 2

    Check wiring to heater

    Inspect both wires leading to the heater for damage, burned insulation, or loose connections.

  3. 3

    Replace the heating element

    The element is typically accessible from under the tub. Follow service manual for your specific model.

    🔩 GE washer heating element ($40–$100)
    ⚠️ Unplug and fully drain the washer before accessing the heater.

How to Reset Error Code E64

After replacing the heating element, unplug for 5 minutes and restart. The code clears after a successful heated cycle.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

When to Call a Professional

Heating element access requires significant disassembly. Professional service is recommended if you're not experienced.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $200–$380

Related Error Codes

Same Code on Other Brands

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Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your GE Appliances Washing Machine:

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code E64 mean on a GE Appliances Washing Machine? +
Heater open circuit — heating element has failed
How do I fix error code E64 on my GE Appliances Washing Machine? +
Start by Disconnect the two wires from the heater. Test with a multimeter for continuity. A good heater reads approximately 20–30 ohms. Open circuit = failed heater.. If that doesn't resolve it, work through each step in the fix guide above.
How do I clear or reset error code E64? +
After replacing the heating element, unplug for 5 minutes and restart. The code clears after a successful heated cycle.
Is error code E64 serious? +
This is a high-severity error. You should address it soon. Running the appliance may cause further damage.